Science

Meet Wukong: The AI Revolutionizing Space Missions!

2025-08-18

Author: Wei Ling

Astronauts and AI: A Game-Changing Partnership

In an exciting leap for space exploration, astronauts aboard China’s Tiangong space station have recently embraced the era of artificial intelligence by completing their third spacewalk with a groundbreaking AI assistant!

Introducing Wukong AI: Named After the Legendary Monkey King

This new AI, named Wukong after the iconic Monkey King from the classic Chinese tale *Journey to the West*, was launched to the space station alongside state-of-the-art spacesuits and provisions on July 15. Wukong AI, built on a robust open-source model, is specifically designed to assist with manned space missions and is equipped with an extensive knowledge base focused on aerospace standards.

Real-Time Assistance for Extravehicular Activities

During a recent mission, astronaut commander Senior Colonel Chen Dong and his crewmate Colonel Wang Jie utilized Wukong AI for pre-mission preparations. The duo sought work schedules a day before their spacewalk and, just like that, the AI promptly provided detailed links and guidance!

"The insights it delivered were incredibly thorough," Wang remarked, praising the AI's capabilities.

A Milestone in Space Technology

Wukong AI’s integration marks a historic first as China’s space station utilizes advanced AI technology in orbit. According to staff member Zou Pengfei, this model has been performing consistently for a month, yielding highly positive reviews from the astronauts.

Combining Earth and Space Intelligence for Superior Problem-Solving

Wukong AI is not just any ordinary system; it harmoniously integrates ground-based intelligence with its orbital counterpart to tackle complex challenges. The ground model provides in-depth analyses while the space station variant focuses on immediate, critical problem-solving.

Transforming Space Operations with Smart Technology

Moreover, this innovative AI can rapidly adapt for efficient mission planning, data analysis, and smart forecasting. Its scenario-based processing ensures quick and accurate decision-making, significantly enhancing the crew's operational efficiency, psychological support, and collaboration between ground and space teams.

As technology advances, Wukong AI stands at the forefront, paving the way for a new era in space missions.